Who Should I Start? MarShawn Lloyd or Tyjae Spears

Wednesday, September 17, 2:48 PM

Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd (hamstring) remains on Injured Reserve but is eligible to return in Week 6 against a vulnerable Bengals defense. The Packers' backfield has leaned heavily on Josh Jacobs, who has accounted for 42 of the team's 55 rushing attempts through two games. That kind of workload will be difficult to sustain, and the lack of usage for reserves Chris Brooks and Emanuel Wilson--each with just one carry--suggests the coaching staff isn't comfortable leaning on them in meaningful situations. Lloyd's eventual return could provide Green Bay with a much-needed spark, as his speed and big-play ability were evident during the preseason. Fantasy managers in deeper formats should monitor Lloyd's progress, as he could quickly carve out a change-of-pace role and potentially spell Jacobs to keep him fresh.

Monday, October 6, 9:09 PM

Tennessee Titans running back Tyjae Spears made his return in Week 5 from a high ankle that kept him out for the first four games of the season. Spears saw limited usage in his first game back, playing 17 total snaps and recording four carries for 14 yards against the Arizona Cardinals. However, Titans head coach Brian Callahan said Spears' role will increase in future weeks, per Jim Wyatt of TennesseeTitans.com. The 24-year-old recorded 536 yards from scrimmage and five touchdowns on 114 total touches across 12 games last season. Spears and Titans back Tony Pollard will split backfield work to some degree once Spears is fully healthy and re-integrated into the offense. For now, Spears should be rostered by fantasy managers, but likely cannot be trusted as a starter in Week 6 against the Las Vegas Raiders.